Pregnancy Do's and Don'ts

Do take prenatal vitamins with folic acid. Medical studies have

demonstrated that folic acid can help to prevent birth defects. Many women may

have a deficiency of folic acid. Your doctor will recommend that you take a

prenatal vitamin with folic acid and you will want to be sure to follow that

advice. There are many brands of prenatal vitamins available at most grocery stores or health food stores.

Don't smoke tobacco. Tobacco has been found to be harmful to

pregnant women and their babies. Do avoid second hand smoke as much

as possible.

Do learn about pregnancy information, and what to expect in your

pregnancy each week, month, and trimester. Look these topics up online, read books and talk to your doctor about any

pregnancy related questions you may have.

Don't lift heavy objects or do strenuous labor. While it is a great

idea to do mild exercise like walking, this is not a time for seeing how much

weight you can lift at the gym. Read Fit Pregnancy magazine for ideas on

maintaining your ideal pregnancy weight.

Do eat health foods. Everything you eat has a positive or negative

effect upon the growing baby in your womb. Feed your baby health foods,

fruits and vegetables, leafy greens, brown rice, whole grain breads, lean chicken, milk, yogurt, etc.

Don't drink alcohol. It is best to abstain and not have any. Although

some doctors say it is okay to have one glass of wine with dinner on the

weekend, be sure to ask your own doctor about your particular body and

individual health situation.

Do enjoy being a mom. This is a magical and special time in your

life. Rather than stress out about the outcome, be sure to enjoy the journey.

Your baby will feel happy and healthy if you are feeling happy and healthy.

Watch some funny shows on television and have a good laugh. Read some

entertaining books, and listen to some pleasant music and sing along.

Smile and rub your belly, while you talk to you baby and say "I love you."

Monica Nelson writes about health topics, about womens health issues, and about specific topics such as early pregnancy symptoms and what to expect in your pregnancy week by week. These health articles are provided as a helpful news service and are not to be considered medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about health issues such as pregnancy.